Turkey: Mass Arrests, Chaos in Istanbul and Ankara Amid Protests

More than 1,100 protesters have been arrested in recent days across major Turkish cities following the detention of a key political figure. Despite the crackdown, people continue to protest for democracy, demanding the release of the former mayor of Istanbul. On Monday (March 24, 2025), images emerged showing the detained individual being transported to Silivri prisons, about 80 km from Istanbul. The government claims these protests are incited by the opposition. “We condemn the scenes of violence and incidents,” stated an official. “The opposition party is provoking citizens into violent demonstrations against our police using stones, sticks, and Molotov cocktails.” Authorities also emphasized that the opposition cannot govern unless managing municipalities. Demonstrations persisted into Monday evening in Istanbul, Ankara, and other large cities. Law enforcement used plastic bullets and pepper spray during clashes with protesters in Istanbul, while water cannons were deployed in Ankara. As protests escalated, authorities sought the closure of hundreds of social media accounts. Over 700 X (formerly Twitter) accounts, including those belonging to journalists, political figures, students, and others within Turkey, were targeted, according to the company. Describing the government’s move as ‘illegal,’ X confirmed its commitment to defending free speech through legal channels. However, several accounts involved in coordinating protests were suspended. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan remains determined to suppress dissent ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.